Europe. The Irish experience

Book abstract:

'Europe. The Irish experience' is a compilation of a series of lectures presented by the Institute of European Affairs (IEA) in the late autumn of 1998 to mark Ireland's attainment of 25 years membership of the European Communities and Union. Their collection as chapters in this volume is intended to form a permanent record of Ireland's experience in Europe. The papers which form Chapters 2-11 explore the impact of European Union (EU) membership on four spheres of Irish life: politics, society and culture, the economy and public administration. To facilitate this, two introductory chapters describe the political, economic social and administrative system prior to Ireland's membership. The impact of EU membership on each area is considered by two authors, one analyst and one activist.

Each chapter provides a reflective appraisal, rather than an historical account, of the years since 1973. In many instances, the reflections are supported by reference to particular issues or episodes. Overall, the book seeks to provide an objective and balanced assessment of how the 25 years of membership have affected Irish politics, administration, economy and society.

Rory O'Donnell is Jean Monnet Professor of European Business Studies at the National University of Ireland, University College of Dublin.